Press Release

GAO Celebrates 90 Years of Service to Congress and the American Public

WASHINGTON, DC (July 1, 2011)  Today the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) marks its 90th anniversary. Since President Warren G. Harding signed the Budget and Accounting Act of 1921, GAO has supported Congress by tracking taxpayer dollars in order to help improve the performance of the federal government and ensure its accountability for the benefit of the American people.

For 90 years, the people of GAO have worked hard to build and maintain our agencys reputation as an objective, fact-based, nonpartisan watchdog organization, said Gene L. Dodaro, Comptroller General of the United States and head of the GAO. Today we celebrate that great accomplishment. Accountability in government has never been more critical, and GAO remains committed to providing our brand of reliable analysis for another 90 years and beyond.

To mark this anniversary, GAO has created a video outlining the agencys history. It features archival footage of GAO, as well as interviews with Mr. Dodaro and two former Comptrollers General, David M. Walker and Charles A. Bowsher. GAO has also designed a commemorative logo for the agencys website in honor of the occasion.

For more information, contact Chuck Young, Managing Director of Public Affairs, at 202-512-4800.

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The Government Accountability Office, known as the investigative arm of Congress, exists to support Congress in meeting its constitutional responsibilities. GAO also works to improve the performance of the federal government and ensure its accountability to the American people. The agency examines the use of public funds; evaluates federal programs and policies; and provides analyses, recommendations, and other assistance to help Congress make informed oversight, policy, and funding decisions. GAOs commitment to good government is reflected in its core values of accountability, integrity, and reliability.